Modular Underwater Vehicle for AUV-ASV-ROV Interchangeability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current underwater and surface vehicles are high-cost, limited in operation periods due to high energy consumption, and require separate maintenance and personnel for different types, restricting their interchangeable use for various research tasks.
Innovation Solution
A modular underwater vehicle system that can transform into an autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV), an autonomous surface marine vehicle (ASV), or a remotely operated underwater vehicle (ROV) by adding or removing modules such as ballast, strut kit, aerodynamic platform, engine-propellers, and data-energy transmission cables.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a vehicle is designed as a single type (AUV, ASV, or ROV), then it can perform specific specialized tasks, but it cannot be used interchangeably for other types of tasks requiring different vehicle configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The vehicle is divided into a modular structure consisting of a base unit and detachable functional modules. The base unit contains common systems (power source, control unit, propulsion), while specialized modules (AUV module, ASV module, ROV module) can be attached or detached to transform the vehicle between different operational modes, enabling interchangeability without requiring multiple complete vehicles
Solution Approach 2:
The base vehicle unit is designed with universal interfaces and attachment mechanisms that accommodate multiple types of functional modules. This allows a single base vehicle to perform multiple functions by simply changing the attached module, making the vehicle system universal and adaptable to different task requirements
2Reliability
If underwater vehicles are designed with positive buoyancy to surface spontaneously, then they can return to the surface when energy is consumed or systems fail, but they require additional vertical axis engine thrust to maintain constant depth, increasing energy consumption
Solution Approach 1:
A ballast module is introduced as a counterweight system that can be dynamically adjusted. The ballast provides negative buoyancy to counterbalance the positive buoyancy of the vehicle hull, enabling neutral buoyancy for depth maintenance. This eliminates the need for continuous vertical thrust while maintaining the ability to surface by releasing ballast weight
Solution Approach 2:
The buoyancy system is made dynamic through the adjustable ballast mechanism. The ballast can be added or removed based on operational requirements, allowing the vehicle to transition between positive buoyancy (for surfacing) and neutral buoyancy (for depth maintenance), optimizing energy consumption while maintaining reliability
3Adaptability or versatility
If different types of marine vehicles (AUV, ASV, ROV) are used for different tasks, then each vehicle can be optimized for its specific function, but institutions must purchase and maintain multiple high-cost vehicles with separate personnel
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the common functional systems (power source, control unit, propulsion, navigation) into a single shared base vehicle, while task-specific functions are provided by interchangeable modules. This consolidation reduces the total number of vehicles needed from three separate vehicles to one multi-functional vehicle system, thereby reducing manufacturing, maintenance, and personnel costs
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient and cost-effective operation across various marine environments by reducing the need for multiple vehicles, extending operation periods through independent power and thrust, and simplifying maintenance with a single vehicle capable of multiple functions.
Implementation Method 1
The downward thrust generated on the buoyancy element (2) by the ballast element (3) creates the neutral buoyancy, that is, the equalization of the buoyancy force to the vehicle weight force
Implementation Method 2
at least one vertical axes thruster (2.1)... that enables the buoyancy element (2) to dive to the preferred or targeted depth
Implementation Method 3
at least one propeller (2.2)... that provides the necessary horizontal cruising of the buoyancy element (2) during the deep diving for the seabed
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
The present invention relates an autonomous surface and underwater vehicle (1), which is independent under water and on the water surface, that is, completely autonomous, and which uses its own power source, that can be converted into a surface vehicle or a cable-controlled vehicle in shallow waters and deep seas within the scope of naval architecture and mechatronics engineering.